Weather Changes In Delhi-NCR; Dust Storms In Several Areas, Yellow Alert Issued

New Delhi: Amidst the scorching heat in Delhi-NCR, the weather took a turn for the better on Monday night. Dust storms took place in several areas, including Delhi and Noida. The Meteorological Department has issued a 'Yellow Alert' for thunderstorms accompanied by lightning and gusty winds. There is also a possibility of rain during this period, which could provide residents with much-needed relief from the intense heat.

What did the IMD say?

In its advisory, the Meteorological Department (IMD) stated that the weather is likely to change during the evening or night, accompanied by thunderstorms. Light to very light rainfall may occur during this time. Additionally, lightning strikes are possible, and winds are expected to blow at speeds of 30–40 km/h, occasionally gusting up to 60 km/h.

The Meteorological Department (IMD) further noted in its warning that very light to light rainfall, accompanied by thunderstorms, is likely in parts of South-East Delhi, East Delhi, Shahdara, Central Delhi, North-East Delhi, South Delhi, New Delhi, South-West Delhi, West Delhi, North-West Delhi, and North Delhi.

Is There a Possibility of Rain on Tuesday as Well?

According to the Meteorological Department's forecast, residents of Delhi-NCR may continue to experience relief from the heat tomorrow as well. Several areas could witness rain accompanied by thunderstorms. Furthermore, there is a likelihood of thunderstorms and lightning on April 29. The Meteorological Department has issued a 'Yellow Alert' for this day as well. Meanwhile, the maximum temperature is expected to drop to around 38 degrees Celsius. Following this, on April 30, the skies may remain partly cloudy, with a continued possibility of thunderstorms and lightning.

Earlier in the day, residents of Delhi felt the heat right from Monday morning; the minimum temperature was recorded at 25 degrees Celsius—1.2 degrees higher than the seasonal normal. According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the minimum temperature recorded at Palam was 26 degrees Celsius, while at Lodhi Road, it stood at 23.6 degrees Celsius. At both these stations, the temperatures were above normal levels. The Ridge area recorded a minimum temperature of 25.8 degrees Celsius, while Ayanagar recorded a minimum temperature of 24.4 degrees Celsius.

What is the Action Plan to Combat Heat in Delhi?

In view of the severe heat in Delhi, the government has formulated an action plan to tackle the heatwave. Chief Minister Rekha Gupta stated on Monday that the government remains vigilant in addressing the heatwave; under the action plan, the Labour Department has been directed to ensure that workers do not work outdoors between 1:00 PM and 4:00 PM during the peak heat hours. CM Rekha Gupta held a review meeting with all departments and directed the Education Department to make arrangements for providing ORS solutions in schools.

She stated, "All children will be given an ORS solution before leaving for home after school, so that the heat does not adversely affect them, particularly if they are walking home." The Chief Minister has also directed the Transport Department to keep drinking water available in 'cool boxes' inside all DTC buses. Gupta added that instructions have been issued to ensure a continuous supply of electricity and water. Directives have also been issued to all other concerned departments.